A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE Act one - Scene 1 Reading Guide Questions

How does Blanche react to Stella's apartment?

Blanche blurts out how awful the apartment is but then tries to hide her insult beneath laughter. She asks how Stella how she (Stella) can live in such a run down place.

What dramatic function to Steve and Eunice, as a couple, seem to serve?

Comic Relief Releve dramatic tension

How is Blanches drinking problem introduced?

When she is first left alone in Stella´s apartment, she pours herself some whiskey; when Stella returns, she denies drinking before, and suggests her and Stella drink.

What does Blanche learn about Stanley before she meets him?

1. He is Polish 2. Stella says he is ¨different species¨ compared to men at Belle Reve. 3. Master Sargent in Engineer Corps

What is known about Blanche before she speaks her first time?

1. she does not match setting; she is out of place 2. Dressed in white gloves and pearls; elegant. 3. Five years older than Stella

What happend to Belle Reve?

Blache lost it because death/ medical expenses. AND men took loans against the plantation to finance sexual affairs.

How is Stella described in the stage directions? How does she contrast with Stanley, aside from being female?

Calm and gentle. Stella has different upbringing than Stan.

As the play begins, how is Stanley´s primitive nature revealed?

He tosses the meat when he enters. He has no manners; he addresses Stella as ¨the little woman¨

Why does Blanche ask Stella to turn off overhead light?

Light makes her look old; shows wrinkles, etc.

When Stanley, Mitch and Steve return from bowling, what do they agree to do the next day?

Play poker at Mitchs house.

What mood do the opening stage direction and setting description create? What effect is created with the music of the ¨blue piano¨?AS

Setting/ stage direction create Serene mood. Blue piano expresses spirit of New Orleans

What reason does Blanche give for her arrival in New Orleans?

She claims to have been given leave of absence from school in May.

What is Blanches reaction when she reaches Stellas home? How does she react to Eunices efforts to help her?

She doesn´t approve of Stella´s living conditions (too small/ messy) She asks Eunice to leave her alone.